Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16907RATE/V+T

Overview

MAX16907RATE/V+T from Maxim Integrated is a 3A, current-mode, automotive-grade step-down DC-DC converter with integrated 70mΩ high-side MOSFET, operating from 3.5V to 36V input and delivering 5V fixed or 1V–10V adjustable output at up to 3A continuous load. It features 2.2MHz switching frequency, 30µA no-load quiescent current, and operates across –40°C to +125°C for engine bay power rails in ADAS cameras and infotainment head units.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16907RATE/V+T datasheet, MAX16907RATE/V+T pinout, MAX16907RATE/V+T application, or MAX16907RATE/V+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its 42V transient tolerance, 98% max duty cycle during cold-crank undervoltage events, spread-spectrum EMI reduction (factory-enabled), and dual-supply architecture (SUP/SUPSW) enabling stable operation under wide VIN variation.

Technical Context

The MAX16907RATE/V+T implements constant-frequency current-mode control with an internal transconductance error amplifier (gm = 900µS), 80ns minimum on-time, and fast-loop compensation supporting stable regulation during ±3A load transients. Its dual-input supply architecture isolates bias generation (SUP → BIAS LDO) from switch drive (SUPSW → LX), allowing reliable operation when SUPSW drops below VOUT during cold-crank.

It integrates overvoltage (110% VFB trip), thermal shutdown (+175°C with 15°C hysteresis), and cycle-by-cycle current limiting (ILX = 3.4–6A), with automatic recovery after fault clearance. The device enters skip mode below 300mA load, reducing quiescent current to 30µA while maintaining PGOOD monitoring and soft-start sequencing.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX16907RATE/V+T is packaged in a 16-pin TQFN (5mm × 5mm) with exposed pad, optimized for thermal performance in high-power-density automotive PCBs.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar step-down converter applications.

Compared with LM61480-Q1 and TPS62933-Q1, MAX16907RATE/V+T uniquely combines 3.5V start-up capability, 42V transient tolerance, and factory-enabled spread spectrum in a thermally optimized 5mm × 5mm package - making it the only option qualified for direct replacement in cold-crank–critical ADAS power designs.

Availability

MAX16907RATE/V+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ADAS camera modules, infotainment head units, and telematics control units requiring stable component supply with AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualification and long-term production support.

Supply support for MAX16907RATE/V+T includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Maxim Integrated (now part of Analog Devices) is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for automotive, industrial, and communications markets.

The MAX16907RATE/V+T belongs to Maxim's automotive power management portfolio, designed specifically for harsh-environment DC-DC conversion in engine bay and chassis-mounted electronics where wide VIN, low IQ, and transient robustness are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage transient the MAX16907RATE/V+T can withstand?

The MAX16907RATE/V+T is rated for 42V input transients (t < 1s), complying with ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a load-dump requirements. This rating is validated across the full –40°C to +125°C temperature range and does not require external TVS diodes for standard automotive applications. The device continues normal regulation during the transient event and recovers automatically once voltage returns within 3.5V–36V operating range.

Does the MAX16907RATE/V+T support fixed 5V output without external resistors?

Yes, the MAX16907RATE/V+T supports fixed 5V output by connecting the FB pin directly to the BIAS pin - eliminating external feedback resistors and reducing component count. In this configuration, output voltage is guaranteed at 4.925V to 5.075V over temperature and line/load conditions, with typical regulation accuracy of ±1% at room temperature.

What is the purpose of the separate SUP and SUPSW pins on the MAX16907RATE/V+T?

The SUP pin supplies the internal 5V BIAS LDO and control circuitry, while SUPSW independently powers the high-side MOSFET gate driver. This dual-supply architecture allows the MAX16907RATE/V+T to maintain regulation during cold-crank events where SUPSW may drop below VOUT - the controller sustains up to 98% duty cycle to prevent dropout, unlike single-supply buck converters that fail below ~6V input.

How does the MAX16907RATE/V+T achieve low EMI in automotive systems?

The MAX16907RATE/V+T incorporates factory-enabled spread-spectrum modulation (±6% around 2.2MHz) that dithers the switching frequency with a 400µs triangular period. This spreads energy across a wider bandwidth, reducing peak radiated emissions by >10dB compared to fixed-frequency operation - helping designs meet CISPR 25 Class 5 limits without additional EMI filters or shielding.

What thermal performance can be expected from the MAX16907RATE/V+T in a 4-layer PCB?

In a JEDEC JESD51-7 compliant 4-layer board with 2oz copper and thermal vias under the exposed pad, the MAX16907RATE/V+T achieves θ_JA = 35°C/W and θ_JC = 2.7°C/W. At 3A load and 14V input, junction temperature rise is typically <55°C above ambient - well within the +150°C absolute maximum, enabling reliable operation at +125°C ambient with proper layout.